Gold amulet case
Such tubular cases were used as pendants strung on necklaces. They contained spells written on thin sheets of gold or papyrus and were intended to protect the wearer against evil. The practice originated in Egypt but was later very popular with the Phoenicians, from whom it is likely that it was passed on not only to Carthage but also to Cyprus. Amulet cases continued to be made well into Roman times and may be seen as the prototype for Islamic amulets.
Artwork Details
- Title: Gold amulet case
- Date: 1st–3rd century CE
- Culture: Roman, Cypriot
- Medium: Gold
- Dimensions: Other: 1 3/8 in. (3.5 cm)
- Classification: Gold and Silver
- Credit Line: The Cesnola Collection, Purchased by subscription, 1874–76
- Object Number: 74.51.3319
- Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art
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2nd–early 3rd century CE
mid-2nd century CE
mid-2nd–early 3rd century CE
251–253 CE
1st half of 1st century CE
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